Is the 6th Penny Tax Still an Option Amid COVID-19?

Is the 6th Penny Tax Still an Option Amid COVID-19?

Residents will have the opportunity to ask questions and provide input about the potential special purpose sales and use tax that could be on the ballot in November.

SWEETWATER COUNTY– During the Sweetwater County Commissioner meeting Tuesday morning, the board will have a discussion about the 6th penny tax and see where the entities stand on continuing with the ballot initiative.

The Sweetwater County Commissioners will meet Tuesday, May 5, at 8:30 am via video conferencing.

Due to COVID-19 Coronavirus recommendations, the commissioner meeting will not be accessible at the County Courthouse.

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The public is invited to watch the meeting on the Sweetwater County YouTube channel.

The public can comment immediately following the public hearing presentation at about 8:30 am, and during the public comment section of the agenda at about 8:45 am by calling 307-872-3891, or by sending comments ahead of time via email to: publiccomments@sweet.wy.us.

During the commissioner meeting, Commissioner Lauren Schoenfeld will lead a discussion on the 6th penny tax initiative.

In early April, Rock Springs decided to halt their 6th penny effort due to the economic uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic.

This has left the county unsure of how to proceed with the 6th penny, as they do not believe a 6th penny initiative will be passed by voters without Rock Springs on the ballot.

While Rock Springs voluntarily suspended their initiative, Green River also expressed concerns over whether now is the time for a special purpose tax.

Green River, Bairoil, Wamsutter, Granger, and Superior all agreed to wait for a month to see where the economy stands in May, and then revisit what they would like to do.

During the April 7 commissioner meeting, Commissioner Jeff Smith said he believes it is, “vitally important to put it out to the voters and let them decide.”

The discussion over how to proceed with the effort will take place during this week’s commissioner meeting.

View the full agenda and packet here.